April 30, 1950 - March 26, 2022
It is with great sadness that I announce the passing of Barbara C. Allen on March 26, 2022 at Penticton Hospice at the age of 71. She is survived by her daughter Genevieve (Ethan) of Calgary, her two grandchildren Evelyn and Eleanor, her partner John Jackson of Vancouver, and her siblings; Larry of Keremeos, Ronnie (Sandy) of Prince George, Sue of Cawston, and Bobby (Tammy) of Mission. She is pre-deceased by her brother Donny, father John, and mother Evelyn all of Maple Ridge. As well as her nephew Jesse of Mission.
Barbara was born in New Westminster, B.C. on April 30, 1950, she was the 4th of 6 children. She spent the majority of her life in Maple Ridge and the Lower Mainland. She had many fond memories growing up in Haney on old 18th avenue (243rd street) playing with the neighborhood kids and enjoying the numerous large family parties. She was very active throughout life, enjoying skiing, golfing, softball, and cycling.
Barbara excelled at many jobs throughout her life and had an incredible talent for sales. She moved to the Okanagan in the mid 1990's. Many will remember her as Barb, the Petting Zoo Lady, always hard at work tending to the menagerie of animals on Upper Bench Road in Keremeos with her red work shirt, red lips, and welcoming smile.
Her retirement years were spent sharing many wonderful times with her partner John. They travelled the country in their motorhome, fishing, camping, and visiting family and friends. They also embarked on several luxury cruises, and explored Atlantic Canada, Spain, and Portugal to name a few.
Barb was a devoted hands-on mom, immensely proud of her daughter and all her life accomplishments. The pride and joy of Barb's life was unquestionably her two granddaughters. Watching them grow and being an active part of their life was truly her greatest happiness.
Barb will be greatly missed. She was a very unique, exceedingly strong, deeply caring, and beautiful woman.
A celebration of life will be held in Penticton, date to be determined.